Tmj has been acting up for two months now, only way i can get relief is taking anti inflammatories, i'm tired of always drugging myself. options?

TMJ Solutions: The conventional treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications. Other lifestyle changes that can help include eating more soft foods like mashed potatotes and avoid chewy foods like steak. Some people get prescribed a mouthguard that can help realign their jaw and help symptoms. You can also place a warm compress to the joint at night to help reduce the inflammation.

Bruxism Appliance: Have you discussed the fabrication of a bruxism appliance with your dentist? If not, now is the time to do so. Make an appointment, you might be a good candidate.

TMD treatment: Unfortunately most dentists have very little training & experience treating patients with TMD\TMJoint dysfunction. While many simply make a standard bruxism appliance and suggest palliative treamtment, the number of truly knowledgeable "specialists" in this field are few an far between. A careful analysis of jaw position, occlusal analysis & muscle\joint factors need to be evaluated. See comment-

TMJ pain: Most TMJ pain is caused by either bruxism (chronic teeth grinding and/or clenching), a bad bite, or joint damage. Bruxism happens mostly during sleep, but is also common during the day, and is often a stress-related habit. A bruxism appliance/ night guard can provide temporary relief. Long term relief is dependent on eliminating the causes. See your dentist or a TMJ specialist for diagnosis.

A few ideas.: Depends on symptoms, and cause of symptoms. 3 signs of TMJ dysfunction: joint noises, joint pain & limited oral opening. Self treat with soft diet, jaw exercises, massage, heat/cold, OTC pain meds. A splint or physical therapy would be next. Occasionally muscle relaxants, biofeedback. Xrays are done for diagnosis. Surgery usually reserved for serious symptoms not responsive to other treatments.